Gallia County Prosecuting Attorney, Jason D. Holdren, announces that Zachary L. Taylor, age 29, of Gallipolis, Ohio, was recently convicted of Aggravated Possession of Drugs (Methamphetamine) in an amount equal to or greater than bulk but less than five times bulk, a felony of the third degree; and Possession of Fentanyl, a felony of the fifth degree. Taylor committed these offenses while on community control following a 2019 conviction of Having Weapons While Under Disability, a felony of the third degree. Taylor was sentenced to prison by Gallia County Common Pleas Court Judge Margaret Evans for a maximum prison term of 7 years.
At sentencing, the Court noted several aggravating factors: Taylor has a history of criminal convictions, having served a prior prison term; has not responded favorably to sanctions previously imposed; and exhibits a pattern of drug abuse related to the offense and a refusal to engage in treatment. Additionally, Taylor provided a positive drug screen and failed to appear for pretrial appointments prior to his sentencing hearing.
